Hamarikyu Gardens

27/02/2019 12:32:00

About the Ancient Gardens Used by the Samurai’s for Training

Do you want some rest from the noise of this big crowded city? - This tranquility can be found in the Hamarikyu Gardens, where there is plenty of nature and green, alongside pools, coves and picturesque wooden bridges.

The Hamarikyu Gardens are 300 years old and were built during the Edo period. They include beautiful gardens, which also have beautiful artificial lakes. At first, they were used mainly for duck hunting. Over the years they became a refuge from the noise of the city. Their location, close to the Tokyo coastline and not far from the city's fish market, makes them a pleasant tour before or after visiting these places.

In the past, the Hamarikyu Gardens had been part of Japan’s feudal estate. Over the course of history, it has been handed over to Samurai rulers from Shogun. Between the 18th and 19th centuries the samurai used to practice martial arts here. In the garden, they used to hunt wild geese as they lurked in hiding places, where slits were fitted for hunting.

In the garden you can also see moats for protection from attacks and dredges that fill with seawater from the bay. Since such a trench is well-known for its ebb and flow, you will often see the oysters sticking to the moat at low tide.

Tips

The gardens have a pleasant and inviting tea house. Those interested can leave the boat dock for a walk by the river. The gardens are open until 5:00 pm and the entrance fee is 300 yen.A Closer Look at the Cherry Blossoms - The Sakura: